The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has warned that a prolonged oil shock could lead to a loss of $3 trillion in labour income by 2027. In its latest estimates, the ILO projects that global hourly work could decline by 14 million jobs this year and 38 million next year under such a scenario.
ILO Director-General Addresses Conference
Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, presented these statistics in his opening speech at the ongoing 114th International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva. He urged governments and stakeholders to place people at the centre of the AI revolution, emphasizing that the future of work depends on policies, institutions, and social dialogue that shape technological impacts on people's lives.
Human-Centred Approach to AI
Drawing on his report 'A Moment of Choice: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Decent Work', Houngbo called for a human-centred approach to AI. He highlighted a strategic agenda built on four pillars: rights, employment and skills, social protection, and social dialogue.
Fair Distribution of Gains
Houngbo stressed that workers everywhere must benefit from AI-driven productivity gains. 'Those gains must be distributed fairly through better wages, stronger labour protections, and more inclusive growth,' he said. He added that collective bargaining will be essential, alongside AI governance grounded in transparency, accountability, and human oversight.
Global Uncertainty and Regional Risks
The ILO chief placed these challenges in the context of a fragile global economy facing multiple pressures. He noted that the crisis in the Middle East poses significant risks for workers, enterprises, and communities. 'Seafarers in the Strait of Hormuz, migrant workers in Gulf countries, agricultural workers in southern Lebanon, and workers across several sectors in Iran are among those most directly affected,' he stated.
Conference Scope
The ILC brings together worker, employer, and government delegates from the ILO's 187 Member States to address issues with long-term impact on the world of work. The conference aims to shape policies that ensure technological advancements benefit all.
